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NEWS FUNDING SECURED TO IMPROVE OPEN SPACE

Above: Neglected land in private ownership in Higher Failsworth and Wrigleyhead, which could benefit from open space improvements

06/04/07

UNUSED AND UNLOVED open space in the Higher Failsworth and Wrigleyhead areas of Failsworth are to benefit from over £60,000 worth of improvements after local councillors fought to turn back the decline of some parcels of land.

For many years land in private ownership has been left neglected, lending itself to anti-social behaviour such as fly-tipping and graffiti.

Councillor Jim McMahon, who applied for the funding said "we have made real progress in improving our parks and open space, but there is still work to do. Until now we have not had the resources to tackle this in a sustainable way - until now".

Residents living near 'problem plots' will be consulted over summer to gather their views on what could be done to improve their environment.

Landowners permission will be sought prior to work starting and where possible the creation of new community gardens will be the main focus of the funding available in order to make the area stand the test of time - and not return to be an eyesore.

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NEWS COUNTRY PARK WORKS PLANNED IN DAISY NOOK

Above: Councillor Jim McMahon views plans to widen footpath near the visitors centre, and the section of the canal planned for an outdoor educational area.

20/03/07

A series of improvements are planned for Daisy Nook country park over the coming months to help accommodate growing visitor numbers.

The John Howarth Centre cafe will be extended internally and additional car parking will be created at the Stannybrook Road car park.

Longer term plans are being developed which will see educational facilities provides, a children's play area and a stronger focus on the industrial heritage of the site - with links being made to the canal and history of Daisy Nook.

Councillor Jim McMahon, who has lead the fight to improve Daisy Nook says "this is excellent news and shows our commitment to the country park. Daisy Nook is the jewel in our crown and we have a duty to protect and improve it. The passion shown by our parks and countryside team needs to be acknowledged, without which the huge amount of improvements would not be possible".

In addition to the short term improvements, parks and countryside bosses are developing a management plan which will lead to a lottery bid over the coming years.

Find out more on the history of Daisy Nook by clicking here